The LG Star, rumored to be the first dual-core Android-based smartphone, was reportedly tested recently by Engadget.

According to the tech blog, which claims to have received the smartphone from a "very anonymous tipster," the LG Star in its possession was still in its prototype stage.

The device purportedly boasts a dual-core Nvidia Tegra 2 processor, a 4-inch display, and according to Engadget, might run Android 2.3 Gingerbread when it's finally released. Overall, the blog said that the Star's design is quite similar to that of the HTC Droid Incredible, another Android-based smartphone.

Aside from that, Engadget said that the device, thanks to its dual-core chip, performed quite well in benchmarks. Its tests revealed that the gadget's performance easily bested that of the Nexus One, and nearly doubled the performance of the Motorola Droid X and the HTC Evo, both running Android 2.2. Overall, Engadget said that the LG Star is "in a word, outstanding."

Rumors have been swirling about the impending announcement of the LG Star for quite some time. In addition to what Engadget is reporting, there is speculation that the device will feature 1080p video recording and an 8-megapixel camera. It's expected to hit store shelves in early 2011, though LG hasn't officially confirmed that release date.

LG did not immediately respond to request for comment on the Star's specs or availability.